Boosting appeal

Roadsters were initially intended as ‘single seaters' with engine and drive shafts offset from the centreline of the vehicle in order to enable a lower driver seating position, which in turn resulted in better handling and dynamics. Modern roadsters, especially mass market types don't really adhere to all the earlier technicalities. However, the appeal and intent for good handling remains the same - a longer than usual bonnet and seats very close to the rear axle combined with a low seating position. Once these basics are met, the power really doesn't matter, but if it does, the new Z4 comes with a range of engines to choose from.

For those with very modest power requirements who would still love to have a sporty looking ride, there is the sDrive23i that comes with a 2.5-litre straight six engine that produces 204hp at 6,200rpm and 250Nm of torque at 2,950 rpm. If you think that's not quite enough, there is the sDrive30i (which is what I was given to review) that comes with a 3.0-litre straight six engine that churns out a little more power and torque: 285hp at 6,600 rpm and 310Nm at 2,750 rpm respectively.

The flagship Z4 sDrive35i comes with what I would say suits the car perfectly. A twin turbocharged 3.0 litre-straight six engine that also powers the 335i and the 135i. This power unit produces a perfect 306hp at 5,800 rpm and 400Nm from 1,300 to 5,000 rpm of power and torque. BMW's turbo power is known for its seamless kick in and delivery that makes it feel like a naturally aspirated larger engine without a turbo. In simpler words, the presence of the twin turbo is not obvious during acceleration.

My first impressions before stepping in were good, especially since the design in my opinion is far better than the previous generation. A more purposeful and conventional roadster-like look combined with the retracting roof makes it look more complete. The front grille is appealing and intimidating at the same time and manages to radiate an impression of what the car is all about. Although the boot space proportional for a roadster, it is still quite small, especially with the retracting roof tucked in. Although a lot of changes, facelifts and silicone implants have gone into the body parts, the basic BMW appeal, stance and image remains unchanged. The hardtop roof takes approximately 20 seconds to retract and the car does look a lot more appealing with the roof down. The window design on the 2010 Z4 offers more all round visibility than previous models.

The interiors are very much BMW with no major changes that would indicate otherwise. I'm a big fan of the way BMW maintains the functionality of their car interiors without too many enhancements especially in the entertainment department. BMWs have always been about delivering a great driving experience and not about ‘in-car' gadgetry and entertainment. Somehow, it continues to hold on to those core qualities despite the way gadgets are overemphasised in many other brands. The sDrive30i did not come with the optional iDrive system and to be honest, I didn't miss it at all.

Handling as far I'm concerned is perfect and I can assume that it would have felt even better on the sDrive35i with the twin turbos. What makes the handling a lot more fun on roadsters as compared to regular coupés or sedans is the positioning of the seats very close to the rear axle. The driver feels totally in control of the whole car without a sense of overhang at the rear, especially when negotiating curves. The Sport+ mode further enhances the fun by letting the traction control ease up a bit for enthusiastic and responsible drivers to enjoy the power and handling a little more. Steering control, which again is one of BMW's strong areas, was enjoyable. The steering wheel helps maintain a stronger bond between the driver and the car. The handling on the Z4 irrespective of BMW's heritage is backed up by quite a few features such as harmonious axle load distribution, an aluminium suspension or an optional ‘M' suspension, a centrally guided rear axle and finally a double-joint tie bar front axle. A lot of sophistication has gone into the handling and improving it constantly over the years is proof enough of BMW's commitment to provide a great driving experience.

The balance between the interiors and exteriors gives this car a unique and bold image. Overkill is not evident in any area of the design or functionality. It does not radiate a larger-than-life image like many American sports coupés, neither does it feel totally mechanical like most Japanese coupés. The Z4 manages to strike a balance which is quite rare. It looks sober enough to pass unnoticed, yet it is capable of class-beating performance supplemented by good interior design and build quality.

On the whole, the Z4 is clearly a good choice in its segment. BMW's history of producing roadsters goes back 75 years with the first BMW 315 being produced in 1934. It's not necessarily the best roadster to own, as the variables involved in this segment when it comes to engines, drive trains, quality and reliability are many and there is a lot to choose from.

What makes BMW stand out in a crowd is probably the fact that it has managed to remain true to its character over the years. Something most car companies these days seem to be confused about. Many brands let economic conditions alter the character of their cars and in the long run, true fans are unable to relate to or keep up with the car's identity. BMW has made it quite easy for its fans to stay loyal to the brand. They get a brand that makes consistent changes and improvements over time by minimising what is unnecessary and over-delivering on what is necessary while staying true to its core strengths. The end result is overall value in terms of sheer driving pleasure. What more could a motoring enthusiast ask for?

- Philip Shane is a Dubai-based motoring enthusiast